Best Dental Assistant Schools in Minnesota

If you want a hands-on career in healthcare but don't want to spend years in school, becoming a dental assistant in Minnesota can be a smart path. You'll be working directly with patients, supporting dentists, and handling important clinical tasks.

The first step is enrolling in an accredited dental assistant program. Minnesota requires certain training to ensure you meet state licensure standards. Choosing the right school makes all the difference.

Minnesota Dental Assistant Licensing Basics

Minnesota regulates dental assistants through the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.

To become a Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA), you usually need to:

1. Complete a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-approved dental assisting program.
2. Pass both a written and clinical exam approved by the state.
3. Apply for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.

Note: Some dental assistants work without a state license, but their scope of practice is limited. To perform expanded functions like taking x-rays or polishing teeth, you must be an LDA.

You can find the official rules directly from the Minnesota Board of Dentistry: https://mn.gov/boards/dentistry/

Accredited Dental Assistant Schools in Minnesota

Here are some of the top options for CODA-accredited programs in the state. Each school's curriculum covers essential dental sciences, chairside procedures, radiology, infection control, and patient communication.

Tip: Always confirm program accreditation through the CODA search tool.

What You'll Learn in a Dental Assistant Program

A Minnesota dental assistant program covers both theory and practice. You can expect courses in:

• Dental anatomy and terminology
• Chairside assisting techniques
• Dental radiography (x-rays)
• Infection control standards
• Dental materials and lab procedures
• Patient education and record keeping

You'll also complete supervised clinical training. This is where you practice skills in a real dental office or clinic setting.

Steps to Become a Licensed Dental Assistant in Minnesota

Here's the typical process if you start with no prior training:

1. Choose an accredited program.
   Make sure it's CODA-approved so it meets Minnesota's licensing requirements.

2. Complete your training.
   Expect 9-12 months for a diploma or longer for an associate degree.

3. Pass the required exams.
   Minnesota accepts the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams along with a state clinical test.

4. Apply for licensure.
   Submit your application, proof of education, and exam results to the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.

5. Maintain your license.
   LDAs must complete continuing education each renewal period to keep their credentials.

State rule: Continuing education requirements can change. Always verify with the Minnesota Board of Dentistry before your renewal deadline.

Choosing the Right Dental Assistant School

When comparing schools, think about:

• Accreditation status (CODA recognition is a must for full LDA status)
• Program length
• Tuition and fees (plus equipment or lab costs)
• Class size and faculty experience
• Externship opportunities
• Location and schedule flexibility (important if you're balancing work and school)

Visit the campus if you can. See the dental lab facilities, talk to instructors, and ask about job placement rates.

Questions to ask admissions:

• Is your program CODA-accredited?
• How do you help students prepare for licensing exams?
• Where do students complete their clinical externships?
• What percentage of graduates find jobs in the field?

Career Outlook for Dental Assistants in Minnesota

Dental assisting continues to be in demand statewide. The work is steady because regular dental care is a necessity for most people. With an LDA license, you can take on more responsibility and have more job options.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental assistants nationwide have a positive employment growth outlook, with steady job openings each year.

Why Accreditation Matters

Enrolling in a CODA-approved program is more than a formality. It ensures the program meets industry standards and qualifies you for:

• Full state licensing as an LDA
• National certification (CDA) through the DANB
• Higher employability and broader job duties

If a school isn't accredited, you may face extra hurdles or restrictions in your work.

Summary and Next Steps

If you want to become a dental assistant in Minnesota, your path is clear:
Find a CODA-accredited program, complete your training, pass the exams, and get licensed.

Here's what to do next:

1. Review the list of schools above and note which locations and program lengths fit your needs.
2. Verify accreditation on the CODA website before enrolling.
3. Talk to admissions staff and ask the key questions listed earlier.
4. Plan your finances so you can focus on training without major interruptions.

With the right preparation and training, you can start working in a dental office in as little as 12 months.

Sources:

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